Discover: Goliad

Aug. 22, 2009 at 3:22 a.m.

25th Annual Goliad Massacre: Closest weekend to March 27. Fort Defiance Living History Program. A recreation of the occupation of the fort by Col. Fannin and the Goliad Massacre. The only event of its kind in the State of Texas. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., candle light tours 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, following the massacre re-enactment at 10 a.m., a memorial service and a pilgrimage to the Fannin Memorial

Canoe Trail: Goliad's 7th Annual Fall River Flotilla: Nov. 7 - The San Antonio River is a perfect venue for paddlers of all ages and skill levels.

Christmas in Goliad: Dec. 4 and 5. Craft and antique show in historic downtown Goliad.

Missions Tour de Goliad Bike Ride: Third Saturday in October. Pedal through a rich countryside filled with stately centuries-old live oak trees and gently rolling hills.

Goliad County Fair: Third weekend in March. Festivities for Fiesta Zaragoza begin the first weekend closest to May 5. Official ceremonies on May 5. Celebrates the Mexican National Day holiday honoring Gen. Zaragoza, who was born in Goliad. Goliad is the official site of Cinco de Mayo celebrations noted by the Texas Legislature.

Goliad Built on the site of Indian Village

Goliad, built on the site of the Aranama Indian village named Santa Dorotea, is one of the three oldest municipalities in Texas.

May 18, 1902 is a day steeped in a local lore, as a killer tornado struck Goliad killing 114 people. The storm is still regarded as the worst in Texas history.

In 1942, a hurricane toppled the original tower and turrets on the county courthouse, which was restored in 2003.

The town is located where the Presidio La Bahia massacre occurred. The massacre is re-enacted every year the closest weekend to March 27. Goliad is also known for Market Days that is now in its 21st year.